Preview — Defending Allye
by Susan Stoker

Defending Allye

Love is a life-and-death risk for the Mountain Mercenaries in New York Times bestselling author Susan Stoker’s explosive series of alpha heroes, hot action, and hard passion…

Ever since his rescue op off the Pacific Coast, Mountain Mercenary Gray Rogers hasn’t been able to forget his latest “job”—Allye Martin. Any other woman would have panicked during a rescue, but the w

Love is a life-and-death risk for the Mountain Mercenaries in New York Times bestselling author Susan Stoker’s explosive series of alpha heroes, hot action, and hard passion…

Ever since his rescue op off the Pacific Coast, Mountain Mercenary Gray Rogers hasn’t been able to forget his latest “job”—Allye Martin. Any other woman would have panicked during a rescue, but the wily dancer kept her cool—even after being kidnapped by an elusive human trafficker. And Gray couldn’t be happier when a grateful Allye follows him home to Colorado Springs…

For Allye, finding sanctuary in the arms—and bed—of the former Navy SEAL is only temporary. People are disappearing off the streets of San Francisco, victims of the same underground trade that targeted her, and Allye could be the key to dismantling the entire operation. She’s willing to do anything to bring them down. Gray isn’t—for good reason. But you don’t say no to a tough girl like Allye who refuses to play it safe.

Now Gray is risking more than ever before. The Mountain Mercenaries have his back. But is it enough to keep the woman he loves out of harm’s way?

Defending Allye is the first book in the Mountain Mercenaries Series. A perfect blend of action, suspense, passion, and tender romance, Susan Stoker delivers a stunning "militaryesque" romance with a lot of heart. Gray Rogers is a former Navy Seal and a member of an elite mercenary team that serves to protect civilians. When he is sent on a job and inadvertently rescues Allye Martin from harm, a connection is made. Allye, a professional★4.5★

"If you loved me, you would stay here with me. Safe."

Defending Allye is the first book in the Mountain Mercenaries Series. A perfect blend of action, suspense, passion, and tender romance, Susan Stoker delivers a stunning "militaryesque" romance with a lot of heart. Gray Rogers is a former Navy Seal and a member of an elite mercenary team that serves to protect civilians. When he is sent on a job and inadvertently rescues Allye Martin from harm, a connection is made. Allye, a professional ballet dancer, is spunky and strong-willed. Spending time with Gray, she learns what it means to be truly loved and protected. But with so many dangers lurking around them, the stakes are high for both to stay alive.

"Their tongues dueled and danced together as if they'd kissed a thousand times before."

Told in multiple POV, Defending Allye is a fast-paced read with complex characters and an intense plot. The brotherhood between the Mercenaries is a central part of the plot and the relationships between the entire team has me hooked and I want more Mountain Mercenaries NOW! The passion between Gray and Allye is smoldering hot. Perhaps the best aspect of this read was the way in which these two both grew exponentially by pairing up with the other. The writing flows at a natural pace and when the action was building, I could not turn the page fast enough!

"Love with your whole heart, and give it your all."

Overall, Defending Allye is an absolute must-read for readers who enjoy action, suspense and smoking hot passion. I had the pleasure of meeting Susan Stoker at Book Bonanza in Denver this past summer and I could not wait to get my hands on her books. This is my first Stoker read and I can guarantee it will not be my last. I am looking forward to reading more from Ms. Stoker!

This was meant to be just a short, sweet filler on the last day of the month. And in a way it was. However, it was also a bit more because the author actually managed to let the main characters talk to one another instead of instantly ending up between the sheets.

Allye hasn't had a nice time growing up. Nevertheless, she is an accomplished dancer now. However, at the beginning of the book she's only one thing: a kidnapping victim. The thing is, she wasn't even supposed to be on the boat Grey boaThis was meant to be just a short, sweet filler on the last day of the month. And in a way it was. However, it was also a bit more because the author actually managed to let the main characters talk to one another instead of instantly ending up between the sheets.

Allye hasn't had a nice time growing up. Nevertheless, she is an accomplished dancer now. However, at the beginning of the book she's only one thing: a kidnapping victim. The thing is, she wasn't even supposed to be on the boat Grey boarded that night. He's working for a secret organisation helping victims when the law would take too long (think Charlie's Angels but the angels are male, former military and there's 6 or 7 of them). He meant to get info on the boss of a human trafficking ring and instead got a feisty dancer.Naturally, the (truly sick) bad guy isn't giving up that easily so while the emotional and sexual tension between the MCs mounts, we also get some action.

The concept isn't new, far from it, but I liked the banter and how the MCs actually got to know one another a bit more through conversations before anything else happened between them. Moreover, there was barely any drama at all and the little there was, was only towards the end and didn't last too long so it was much more "realistic" and enjoyable than many other stories of its kind.

Maybe the bad guy was a bit too over the top in the end, but there are truly sick individuals out there who "collect" human beings and do unspeakable things to their "property" (looking into actual numbers and details of human trafficking cases makes one sick) so maybe not.

Last but not least, the attraction between the MCs worked very well and the (relatively few) sex scenes were deliciously hot, not least because Grey was very cool (and I don't just mean physically).

And, of course, we have the set-up for further novels to come. No idea if I'll read them but they are probably going to be very good. 4.5 stars...more

Defending Allye is my first full length novel by Susan Stoker, and a story I really enjoyed. I liked the suspense that was thrown in around the whirlwind romance of Allye and Gray. The chemistry they shared added a sensual feeling to the intriguing story and I thought the blend of everything coming together was done very well.

This is definitely a series I'll be reading more of and even might jump to the second book as my next read. All of the secondary charactGet it here: Amazon US * Amazon UK

Defending Allye is my first full length novel by Susan Stoker, and a story I really enjoyed. I liked the suspense that was thrown in around the whirlwind romance of Allye and Gray. The chemistry they shared added a sensual feeling to the intriguing story and I thought the blend of everything coming together was done very well.

This is definitely a series I'll be reading more of and even might jump to the second book as my next read. All of the secondary characters were very likable so they have my dying to get to know more about them, especially Rex. Overall, it was a sexy and suspenseful story that I would recommend. ...more

While this was a good book, it was also deeply disturbing and not for the faint of heart. Expect some horrifying scenes, a merciless villain, and the possibility of triggers for abuse victims.

When mercenary Grayson Rogers boarded the white slavers' boat, he didn't anticipate finding the victim handcuffed to the bed. After killing the men aboard, he freed the girl, Allye Martin, and ended up in the ocean. During the hours they spent in the water waiting for his friend to come to their ai3.5 stars

While this was a good book, it was also deeply disturbing and not for the faint of heart. Expect some horrifying scenes, a merciless villain, and the possibility of triggers for abuse victims.

When mercenary Grayson Rogers boarded the white slavers' boat, he didn't anticipate finding the victim handcuffed to the bed. After killing the men aboard, he freed the girl, Allye Martin, and ended up in the ocean. During the hours they spent in the water waiting for his friend to come to their aid, he came to respect her and admire her spirit. When they parted, he didn't expect to see her again.

But Allye hadn't escaped empty handed-she brought with her, the flash drive she took from the room at the last minute. When she contacted Gray's mercenary group and turned over the drive to be hacked and reviewed, Gray took her under his wing. Knowing she was still in danger, he insisted she take a leave of absence from her dancing job and hide in another state with him. But the person who tried to buy her is a vicious, merciless egomaniac who isn't going to let her get away. Can Gray and Allye bring this monster to justice without endangering her life?

I really liked Allye. She didn't shrink from doing what needed to be done, and she handled some scary situations with grace and humor. Gray was a little more problematic because he wasn't willing to let Allye make her own decisions.

This book would have been improved with less detail about the monster's actions and treatment of his captives, but it was a fascinating read....more

Grayson Rogers from the Mountain Mercenaries is sent on a mission to gather information on a human trafficking business. On that mission he rescues Allye who was just kidnapped. When the man who purchased her isn't willing to stop going after her, Gray and his fellow mercenaries work diligently to bring this guy down.

Our main characters, Gray and Allye are what really made this story for me. Despite Gray's toughness, he was incredibly sweet to Allye. That is almost the perfect combination in chGrayson Rogers from the Mountain Mercenaries is sent on a mission to gather information on a human trafficking business. On that mission he rescues Allye who was just kidnapped. When the man who purchased her isn't willing to stop going after her, Gray and his fellow mercenaries work diligently to bring this guy down.

Our main characters, Gray and Allye are what really made this story for me. Despite Gray's toughness, he was incredibly sweet to Allye. That is almost the perfect combination in character traits for me with a hero. Add in that Allye was such a strong character herself, and these two have become one of my favorite couples.

I will caution that this has some very disturbing scenes. This is about human trafficking and the villain of the story is a disturbed individual. If you can handle that, this story was really good and I highly recommend it. ...more

Really wanted to love this one, and it started out promising, but Allye's character just fell flat for me. The events in her childhood should've made me feel bad for her, but as it was described it didn't really stir any emotion.

Discussing your life story while trying to stay alive and swim to safety in frigid water didn't really ring true for me either. A copy was kindly provided by Montlake Romance via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

WOW! This first book in Susan Stoker’s new Romantic suspense series is intense, gritty, sexy and HOT!

DEFENDING ALLYE (Mountain Mercenaries #1) by Susan Stoker has everything I am looking for in a Romantic suspense. The excitement takes off from page one with the alpha hero rescuing the heroine, but she is no ordinary, shrinking violet heroine. The villain of the book is pure evil and sadistic. (WARNING for those who have problemsCheck out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com

WOW! This first book in Susan Stoker’s new Romantic suspense series is intense, gritty, sexy and HOT!

DEFENDING ALLYE (Mountain Mercenaries #1) by Susan Stoker has everything I am looking for in a Romantic suspense. The excitement takes off from page one with the alpha hero rescuing the heroine, but she is no ordinary, shrinking violet heroine. The villain of the book is pure evil and sadistic. (WARNING for those who have problems with extreme sexual and physical violence against women, the villain’s crimes are graphic and this series is about a group of ex-military men who fight outside the law against human trafficking.)

Gray Rogers is a former Navy SEAL now working for the mysterious Rex as one of his Mountain Mercenaries in Colorado Springs. The Mountain Mercenaries are all former military with regular jobs, but one call from Rex and they are dispatched around the world to fight human trafficking and/or rescue victims.

Gray cannot stop thinking about his most recent rescue, Allye Martin. He has never had trouble separating his feelings from his job and rescued subjects before, but something about Allye will not let go. Of course she is unique with her one blue eye and one brown and her streak of white hair in her auburn curls, but it was her calmness and fortitude during the rescue that set her apart.

When Allye comes to Colorado Springs from San Francisco to deliver a USB drive that could contain the information needed to catch the head of the human trafficking ring in San Francisco, she remains with Gray in his home and in his bed. But her fellow dancers begin to disappear and turn up dead with a message for her to return to the city.

She refuses to hide as much as Gray fights her return and possible capture. The Mountain Mercenaries have their backs as Allye returns to face her possible capture. Will they be able to stop the human collector who wants to add Allye to his collection permanently?

I loved everything about this story. Allye is a great heroine that has defeated hard luck her whole life and still has an endearing personality, strength and love. Gray is alpha in all ways and is extremely caring and tender with Allye and his family. The sex scenes are smokin’ hot and I feel written perfectly for these two. The plot moves at a fast pace and ramps up the suspense throughout. The head of the traffickers is sadist and his acts are written about graphically and I feel realistically. You cannot sugarcoat the type of evil that is involved in these types of crimes. This is an amazing start to this new series and I am looking forward to the other Mountain Mercenaries’ stories!

Thanks very much to Montlake Romance and Net Galley for allowing me to read this eARC in exchange for an honest review. It is a great start to a new series!...more

Defending Allye is the first book of the Mountain Mercenaries series. It was cute and everything and I love the two main characters buttt some things annoyed me. For most of this book, Allye is basically the victim. I get that she was kidnapped and shit..but it was kind of boring.

I did end up falling for Grayson and Allye though. They were cute and he's like the alpha always looking to save his woman. I'm gladCute ass audio that helped me put up my tree... with lights.Ornaments will come later.

Defending Allye is the first book of the Mountain Mercenaries series. It was cute and everything and I love the two main characters buttt some things annoyed me. For most of this book, Allye is basically the victim. I get that she was kidnapped and shit..but it was kind of boring.

I did end up falling for Grayson and Allye though. They were cute and he's like the alpha always looking to save his woman. I'm glad that they got their happy-ish ending. They definitely got each other throughout the book as well. Their banters were cute and I just couldn't help shipping them.

Other than that, there's that dreaded cliffhanger. I need to know what the hell is happening with that girl back at her home. Is that woman beating her, is it her brother, or is it both? I have so many questions and need answers stat! ...more

Gray and Allye were amazing together and smokin hot. I loved how she spelled her name every time after she was introduced to someone new. Allye had a sh*t childhood which made her very strong. She was perfect for Gray. Now the bad guy, Nightingale, was a seriously messed up mo-fo, and had his sights set on Allye. Gray and his crew of course swoop in and save the day. Great epilogue and the teaser chapterARC received for review

Great first book to what is going to hopefully be an amazing series.

Gray and Allye were amazing together and smokin hot. I loved how she spelled her name every time after she was introduced to someone new. Allye had a sh*t childhood which made her very strong. She was perfect for Gray. Now the bad guy, Nightingale, was a seriously messed up mo-fo, and had his sights set on Allye. Gray and his crew of course swoop in and save the day. Great epilogue and the teaser chapter for the next book makes me want it now....more

Truly this is a 3.5 star-ish book but the last 1.5 hours was pretty intense and good. It felt like the whole book was leading up to the last 2 hours of the book.

The great thing about kindle unlimited is that you can get audio books for free too, so this is one of those books I had nothing to lose to try.

The narrator wasn’t my favorite. Her voice was fine, she fit the heroine because she sounded older, BUT she pauses way too many times. She reads at a nice pace, but she pauses too long in4 Stars

Truly this is a 3.5 star-ish book but the last 1.5 hours was pretty intense and good. It felt like the whole book was leading up to the last 2 hours of the book.

The great thing about kindle unlimited is that you can get audio books for free too, so this is one of those books I had nothing to lose to try.

The narrator wasn’t my favorite. Her voice was fine, she fit the heroine because she sounded older, BUT she pauses way too many times. She reads at a nice pace, but she pauses too long in between sentences. It did bother me a bit and it did hinder some of my listening experience. Sad and true.

The book starts out okay. I felt like nothing really happened for the first 4 hours. There was a lot of detail given while you are listening. I don’t think I would have enjoyed this book had I read it, instead of listening to it, because I tend to like descriptive books in audio format.

Allye is a unique girl, she has two different color eyes and a stripe of hair that is white. Because of this, it makes her the perfect target.

Gray was once a seal and now is an accountant? I know right? He also does private rescue work? Anyhow. I liked him. He was hardcore, but cool.

I thought Allye was kind of annoying at times, but overall she was okay. I didn’t see the chemistry between Gray and Allye, I thought they were good as friends. I found the last two hours of the story the best because I felt like there was a plot. Most of the book was Allye and Gray getting to know each other, which is fine, but not usually my cuppa.

Would I binge read this author? No. If she had another book on kindle unlimited with free audio would I listen to it? Sure....more

Thank the stars above! Defending Allye is a new series for Mrs. Stoker. Kind of. Sort of totally new, but it’s not. It’s sort of like shopping at Target. You know what you came in to shop for, but those dudes in the red and khaki just made a new display that catches your attention. So, you walk back to the front of the store and grab a cart. That’s what Defending Allye is. It’s a new display. And it’s awesome. I can’t tell you how excited I was to read an old, familiar name pop up. It was like “Thank the stars above! Defending Allye is a new series for Mrs. Stoker. Kind of. Sort of totally new, but it’s not. It’s sort of like shopping at Target. You know what you came in to shop for, but those dudes in the red and khaki just made a new display that catches your attention. So, you walk back to the front of the store and grab a cart. That’s what Defending Allye is. It’s a new display. And it’s awesome. I can’t tell you how excited I was to read an old, familiar name pop up. It was like “Yay!! I totally remember you!” I won’t say what other series characters pops up. You read it; you’ll see. Mrs. Stoker builds strong characters—both Hero and Heroine.—in Defending Allye. And her new book, like a new display has levels. There’s the characters. They’re relatable, reliable, resolute, but they’re also funny and sometime quirky. They are people you know in real life. Isn’t that what draws us to read her awesome stuff? Because in every book we connect with a character? So, there’s also the story line level. It’s almost like it’s sitting there on the bottom shelf holding everything up. The characters move through storyline in the most natural, albeit sort of complicated way. But, you aren’t saying “whoa! That’s crazy!” You almost know intuitively that that’s how everything is supposed to happen. And then there’s the display shelf of the side characters. And honestly, for me, I’m a little more excited to be introduced to them as I am the main characters. I know, it’s weird, but I know that with these side characters comes the wonderful possibilities of them getting their own displays! And that tickles me pink! That’s a wonderful thing about Mrs, Srokers books. You want everyone mentioned to get their own story. You crave it. You rant at your friends via Instant Messenger about the injustices of you having to wait to hear about your favorite characters. It’s why you go back and get a cart—you know you need all the matching accessories. You won’t be disappointed delving into Mrs. Stokers new series. You won’t. Pinky swear.

ps. I might know too much about Target. Lol. It was a great place to work during college :)Susan Stoker...more

Defending Allye is a new series by Susan Stoker so you know I was gonna pick this up! All the men of Mountain Mercenaries are former soldiers who now work for the mysterious 'Rex' saving women and children from the clutches of evil. Its like Charlies Angels, but instead of hot girls, its hot guys.

Allye is a dancer who has caught the eye of a sick, demented guy who wants to 'collect' her. Seriously, this guy is messed up and if you have triggers, you should check out the trigger warning. Trust mDefending Allye is a new series by Susan Stoker so you know I was gonna pick this up! All the men of Mountain Mercenaries are former soldiers who now work for the mysterious 'Rex' saving women and children from the clutches of evil. Its like Charlies Angels, but instead of hot girls, its hot guys.

Allye is a dancer who has caught the eye of a sick, demented guy who wants to 'collect' her. Seriously, this guy is messed up and if you have triggers, you should check out the trigger warning. Trust me. MESSED UP! The story starts with Grey saving Allye from the first kidnapping attempt. Of course, this sicko isn't going to stop until he has Allye and he will do whatever it takes to lure her out of hiding.

Grey and Allye certainly have that insta-love thing. Part of it was believable because I do think intense feelings can rise from intense situations like theirs. I felt that Grey and Allye were kind of static though. Neither really developed over the story and I was left feeling kind of blah about them. I enjoyed their story, but their relationship was not the best part of the story for me.

Defendying Allye is a bit darker than many of Stoker's other stories, with this villain being dark and depraved! The plot is compelling, even though you know who the bad guy is, and ultimately, you can guess what will happen. Still, reading it all play out was still engaging and that is always the mark of a well written story to me. While Grey and Allye might not be my favorite couple, I didn't dislike them and they didn't ruin the story. Also, I think this story was filled with more sexy times than many of Stoker's previous stories. I actually found myself skimming a few of them! (So, mom, you are gonna wanna skip this one for sure!)

POV: 3rd
Tears: no
Trope: on the run
Triggers: (view spoiler)[The kidnapper tortures women. Some of the specific tortures done to them are described. Its not described in depth, but it is described enough to make the reader horrified. Women were kidnapped, physically tortured, raped, and kept in cages. (hide spoiler)] Series/Standalone: stand alone
Cliffhanger: (view spoiler)[no (hide spoiler)] HEA: (view spoiler)[yes (hide spoiler)]

See full review on The Book Disciple["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>["br"]>...more

I’ve never read a Susan Stoker romance but a friend was chatting about her so when Defending Allye popped up on Netgalley, I decided to jump on it. I’m glad I did! With lots of action, suspense, and loads of chemistry between the MC’s, I found this to be a great way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Defending Allye did suffer just a tad from first-book-in-a-series-itis, but it wasn’t a bad case so I easily got past it. My main issue was with the backstory of how the Mountain Mercenaries came together. II’ve never read a Susan Stoker romance but a friend was chatting about her so when Defending Allye popped up on Netgalley, I decided to jump on it. I’m glad I did! With lots of action, suspense, and loads of chemistry between the MC’s, I found this to be a great way to spend a lazy afternoon.

Defending Allye did suffer just a tad from first-book-in-a-series-itis, but it wasn’t a bad case so I easily got past it. My main issue was with the backstory of how the Mountain Mercenaries came together. It had my BS meter flirting with the danger zone but I decided to just ignore it. Instead, I allowed myself to just enjoy meeting this wonderful group of extremely interesting guys.

This story focuses on Gray who is a Navy Seal that is now out of the military. He is an accountant by day and a superhero vigilante who saves women kidnapped by slavers by night. I have to say, when he rescued Allye from the ship in the opening chapters, I was unbelievably impressed. He was one hell of a calm during the storm, keeping Allye from panicking even though the situation was dire. He did get on my nerves a bit with his reaction to a certain situation towards the end of the story but I was relieved when he quickly got his head out of his posterior.

Allye impressed me from the beginning. She kept her cool throughout the entire book even knowing she was being targeted by the head of a sex slavery ring. Although not a traditional badass heroine, she showed over and over that she had a backbone of steel.

We also get introduced to the rest of the Mountain Mercenaries, a group of men who I definitely want to know about, especially Rex, their mysterious leader. Once I got past the completely unbelievable way they were formed, I found myself intrigued with their groups dynamics. I also want to know more about the bartender at their favorite haunt. He seems to fit well with them. Maybe too well.

The suspense swirled around a sex trafficking ring and the whacked out leader who the Mountain Mercenaries were determined to take down. Although it did keep me interested and turning the pages, I thought the main antagonist was maybe a bit cartoon-like in his evilness.

Defending Allye had enough strong chemistry, action and suspense to keep me glued to my iPad and my curiosity about the rest of the Mountain Mercenaries will have me one clicking the next book when it comes out.

Suspense and excitement from the outset, powerful story with action and love. Gray is strong and trustworthy, a real knight in shining army or wetsuit as the case may be, saving an unexpected damsel in distress. Allye is normally independent and very self sufficient because she has had to be, being kidnapped to some degree doesn't phase her. Many of the things that happen in this story are worrying and even a little stomach churning, scary to think that there are possibly people out in the worldSuspense and excitement from the outset, powerful story with action and love. Gray is strong and trustworthy, a real knight in shining army or wetsuit as the case may be, saving an unexpected damsel in distress. Allye is normally independent and very self sufficient because she has had to be, being kidnapped to some degree doesn't phase her. Many of the things that happen in this story are worrying and even a little stomach churning, scary to think that there are possibly people out in the world for real mad enough to actually do some of them, or at the very least the sex trafficking and treating woman and kids as their own personal sex slaves. But it happens, so reading a story like this really highlights that subject matter enough to make you think. This is book one in a new series and boy what a first book it is, I cant wait to see what we get in the rest of it. I have loved everything that this author has written, she is one author I always one click and pre order. I myself found some of the content in a bit upsetting in the being a woman and the abuse suffered kind of way, it is disturbing even if it is just fiction, I would hate for anyone to go through what some of these do. At the same time it held my attention and interest, I loved Gray's protective and very alpha persona and behaviour, while Allye stood her ground in some ways but in others was putty in his hands. Their connection and the love that sparked out of something so horrible, the bond that builds with the others in the team as well is really nice. Despite the scary stuff this story is great reading and a fabulous start to a new series. ...more

Good Lord. Susan Stoker did it again. I have read her books and loved them all, the characters and the stories, so with this new series, well I was not sure if I would like it, but gosh darn it, she again wove her magic and I felt that I was part of her story, I was drawn in and fell in love the characters.

Love is a life-and-death risk for the Mountain Mercenaries as it is for everyone? nahh we don't get chased or almost drowning in the ocean, but trust me, you will love this story, I dare not sGood Lord. Susan Stoker did it again. I have read her books and loved them all, the characters and the stories, so with this new series, well I was not sure if I would like it, but gosh darn it, she again wove her magic and I felt that I was part of her story, I was drawn in and fell in love the characters.

Love is a life-and-death risk for the Mountain Mercenaries as it is for everyone? nahh we don't get chased or almost drowning in the ocean, but trust me, you will love this story, I dare not say much as I do not want to give the plot away.But Gray Rogers (Mountain Mercenary) and Allye Martin do meet in the most interesting way, she almost drowns and he saves her, no better way to start a romance.The story moved fast, it was intense as one wondered form page to page what would happen. They characters were again exceptional and you can say lovable.Will Gray save her for further trouble, you do have to read this book, the story is cool well beyond cool, I stayed up until I finished the book in the wee hours of the morning....more

I enjoyed the first quarter of the book, during the rescue, but after that it went downhill pretty fast. I didn't feel any chemistry between Allye and Gray. The more I read, the more implausible it became.2.5 stars

There are some very serious themes and statistics in Defending Allye, because Allye is one lucky break away from becoming a human trafficking statistic. A professional dancer, she has somehow come to the attention of the ugliest of men, one who trades in human flesh, and who wants Allye for his own personal collection. Rescued in the process of being transferred to her new ‘owner’ by Gray, a former Navy SEAL now working for Mountain Mercenaries, she finds she can’t comfortably return to her formThere are some very serious themes and statistics in Defending Allye, because Allye is one lucky break away from becoming a human trafficking statistic. A professional dancer, she has somehow come to the attention of the ugliest of men, one who trades in human flesh, and who wants Allye for his own personal collection. Rescued in the process of being transferred to her new ‘owner’ by Gray, a former Navy SEAL now working for Mountain Mercenaries, she finds she can’t comfortably return to her former life, knowing someone out there has bought and paid for her life and will certainly try again.

There was a long period at the start of this book where Allye and Gray were out in the ocean together and having a long conversation while swimming for their lives in the freezing cold ocean. Now… I don’t know about you, but trying to have a conversation while casually swimming in a warm pool is pretty difficult, never mind while freezing to death, being slapped in the face by waves and trying to save every tiny bit of energy for swimming. I also didn’t buy that someone as competent and organised as Gray wasn’t carrying any kind of emergency rescue beacon he could set off if things went FUBAR.

Later in the books, two members of Allye’s dance troupe are kidnapped in her place, murdered, and ugly messages left ordering her to return. And during all this, the only people who seem to be investigating are Gray’s team. I was reading this in disbelief thinking ‘where are the FBI? This is clearly a serial killer’. Yet the FBI weren’t even MENTIONED: nobody from law enforcement even seemed interested.

I really liked both Allye and Gray. Their characters seemed well fleshed out and I believed in their romance. The complete disregard for what would happen in similar real-life situations got on my nerves, though, and I felt like the author just hadn’t thought through the logic of the plot. At the end of the day, I doubt I’d want to read any more in the series because it just wasn’t believable, which is all very well in a paranormal or fantasy romance, but really doesn’t fly for me in supposedly real-world romantic suspense. Three stars.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through NetGalley....more

Absolutely Fantastic.I volunteered to read an advanced readers copy of Defending Allye an leave a review. This is the first book in the new series , Mountain Mercenaries .This story takes off from the start and never slows down . It's a fabulous rollercoaster ride . This story makes you feel like your right there . It is full of pulse pounding suspense , action packed . I couldn't put it down . I read it straight thru . The story is about a beautifully unique woman Allye Martin a professional daAbsolutely Fantastic.I volunteered to read an advanced readers copy of Defending Allye an leave a review. This is the first book in the new series , Mountain Mercenaries .This story takes off from the start and never slows down . It's a fabulous rollercoaster ride . This story makes you feel like your right there . It is full of pulse pounding suspense , action packed . I couldn't put it down . I read it straight thru . The story is about a beautifully unique woman Allye Martin a professional dancer and Grayson (Gray) an accountant by day and a mountain mercenary ex military alpha hero .I think this such a well written story, absolutely great characters . It has a somewhat dark storyline, but I really enjoyed reading it . I'm looking forward to reading more in the series. I highly recommend taking the time to read this wonderful story. It's more than a 5 Star read for me....more

Grayson is a badass ex-Seal tracking down information on a human trafficking ring when he stumbles across Allye who has been kidnapped. During their swim to safety, they get to know each other and interest is sparked. Allye goes home to San Francisco, while Grayson returns to Colorado Springs. Allye eventually seeks out the mysterious group that Gray belongs to because she has additional information about her abductors and it is clear that the man who "bought" her is still pursuing her. GraysonGrayson is a badass ex-Seal tracking down information on a human trafficking ring when he stumbles across Allye who has been kidnapped. During their swim to safety, they get to know each other and interest is sparked. Allye goes home to San Francisco, while Grayson returns to Colorado Springs. Allye eventually seeks out the mysterious group that Gray belongs to because she has additional information about her abductors and it is clear that the man who "bought" her is still pursuing her. Grayson helps keep Allye safe while they try to determine who the bad guy is. Of course, they fall in love. Aw.

This was a cute story. Yes predictable at times, but there were a few surprises. I am also surprised to realize that I didn't like Grayson's character as much as I thought I would. There were a few edges to his character that were a little too similar to the villain to be comfortable. Speaking of, the author did a great job of making the villain completely creepy! My biggest criticism is that he didn't suffer enough at the end! Allye was very likable. All in all, I liked the story and would be willing to read more in the series....more

This story is crazy good! The villain is EEEEVIIIL! I loved the ocean rescue, even tho I didn't think I would. Gray & Allye were a great match & I loved the pacing. Also highly enjoyed the glimpse into Ro & Chloe's story. 😀 Thumbs up!! ☺

I read once that Susan Stoker was the highest selling modern romance author. So obviously she knows what she’s doing. It’s been a while since I read one of her books but she hasn’t changed things up much if at all since the last time I read her. Defending Allye her first book in her Mountain Mercenary series is pretty much like all her other books. You have a beautiful, emotionally strong and caring, lusty heroine in Allye who survived a tragic childhood and seems to be able to keep her cool regI read once that Susan Stoker was the highest selling modern romance author. So obviously she knows what she’s doing. It’s been a while since I read one of her books but she hasn’t changed things up much if at all since the last time I read her. Defending Allye her first book in her Mountain Mercenary series is pretty much like all her other books. You have a beautiful, emotionally strong and caring, lusty heroine in Allye who survived a tragic childhood and seems to be able to keep her cool regardless of how dire her situation. You have an over the top macho handsome military (or in this case ex-military) hero, former SEAL Gray who becomes Allye’s savior, protector and eventual lover. You have the bad guy who is intent on doing our heroine harm in Nightingale. So if you’re a fan of Stoker’s you’ll probably love this book/series too. Frankly even though I love her heroines I’m a bit bored with her story telling where only the names seem to change. But then again I’m a heterosexual male which is hardly her target demographic.One of the first problems I have with this story and I assume it will carry on through the series is this group of ex-military vigilantes led by the mysterious Rex, are just that, vigilantes. I’m down with taking out bad guys who prey on women and children. In this book Nightingale, a man who trades in making women sex slaves for the highest bidder. I’m down with killing people in self-defense. I can even understand how in rare cases where the villain is so well connected you know if left to the legal system he’ll go unpunished you end him. But I’m not down with these guys acting as judge, jury and executioners torturing and killing all the bad guys they come in contact with rather than turning them over to the law for due process. Another problem I had was with the slave trader Nightingale. Stoker surely made him an evil enough monster as she portrayed his acts of cruelty on his victims. I’m not even sure how she wrote some of those scenes? But she made him so deranged in the way he reduced his captives to nothing more than animals or objects to be added to his menagerie, he felt almost cartoonish to me. I know Allye had to eventually end up in the hands of Nightingale to be rescued or to save herself but Stoker made our band of heroes look like the Keystone cops Nightingale accomplished his goal so quickly and easily. Which was okay I guess because the boys seemed to find his secret lair and enter it just as easily. The whole final confrontation between good and evil felt under done. And as much as Stoker isn’t shy about writing sex scenes (and I don’t pretend to understand what turns some people on sexually) there were a few rough sex scenes in this book where I just don’t get how Allye was turned on by Gray’s behavior? I mean forcing her over a kitchen table, forcing her to her knees in the shower to give him a blowjob is sexy? To me the term forced and turned on just don't go together. And for heavens sake if the man is so good at sex why were there so many times where he told Allye, “make yourself come kitten.”? What does she need him for then?As you’ve figured out while I didn’t hate this book I really didn’t like it much either despite a great heroine. But again, if you’re a Stoker fan you probably will. ...more

The definition of ALPHA: Usually used as a term for a badass male who attracts women without trying. His superiority and pure confidence allows him to achieve success. He does not WANT, because he is the WANTED and BOY do I want Gray! Susan Stoker yet again wow's us with another one of her ADDICTIVE alpha heroes. Grayson Rogers loves being one of the Mountain Mercenaries, a group of ex-special forces guys that are sent around the world by their boss Rex to take out the bad guys. But his latest mThe definition of ALPHA: Usually used as a term for a badass male who attracts women without trying. His superiority and pure confidence allows him to achieve success. He does not WANT, because he is the WANTED and BOY do I want Gray! Susan Stoker yet again wow's us with another one of her ADDICTIVE alpha heroes. Grayson Rogers loves being one of the Mountain Mercenaries, a group of ex-special forces guys that are sent around the world by their boss Rex to take out the bad guys. But his latest mission leaves him reeling. Allye (pronounced like the space between 2 buildings but the y comes before the e) has had a rough life and karma hates her. Just look at her latest situation. Kidnapped off the street, stuck on a boat...yep karma definitely hates her. Until the door bursts open and Gray rescues her. Maybe her karma might be getting better??

Susan Stoker does an amazing job kicking off her new Mountain Mercenaries series with Defending Allye. A spin-off from her Ace Security series, Ms. Stoker continues with her newest Alpha heroes. But don't think the women in Ms. Stokers books just sit and wait for the hero to save them. Ms. Stoker always matches her heroes with strong independent heroines and Allye Martin is definitely the latest one in this group. I love how Ms. Stoker is able to build the backdrop of the story so well that the reader is immediately immersed and "living" the world with her characters. Blending new characters with old, Ms. Stoker never leaves her readers wondering about previous characters from her other books. The story carries the reader along with witty repartee between not only the main characters but the sub-characters as well. The story is rich with emotion and humor and had me crying, grinning and nail-biting. I loved how the action and suspense had me flipping through the book with eagerness and by the end, I was not disappointed. Another fabulous book for Ms. Stoker. My reading of Defending Allye may be done but Ms. Stoker always leaves her readers with anticipation of the next book!!...more

This is a difficult book for me to review. It is an exciting action adventure but the characters feel under developed and I didn’t enjoy the writing style. The Mountain Mercenaries are ex-servicemen who secretly work to protect vulnerable women and children from predators. This story focuses on Grey, a former SEAL and Allye, the woman he rescues from a sex trafficker.

There are so many series about private security/black-ops grI was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

This is a difficult book for me to review. It is an exciting action adventure but the characters feel under developed and I didn’t enjoy the writing style. The Mountain Mercenaries are ex-servicemen who secretly work to protect vulnerable women and children from predators. This story focuses on Grey, a former SEAL and Allye, the woman he rescues from a sex trafficker.

There are so many series about private security/black-ops groups at the moment and so far this one really isn’t a favourite. There is something oddly paternalistic about this group of men sent to rescue women in trouble and it doesn’t feel very 2018. I felt like the violence towards women was sensationalised at times in this book and I felt like Allye, with her skill set, could have been so much more than a victim or bait as the Mountain Mercenaries fought back against her trafficker.

I really enjoyed the connection between Allye and Grey when he rescues her at the start of the book. Allye is calm under fire and the banter between them is brilliant. Unfortunately, both Grey and Allye become more bland and predictable as the story progresses and they revert back to type. Grey never becomes more than the alpha male SEAL and Allye becomes more of a victim as she leaves her life behind and hides out with Grey. I think Grey’s possessive declarations about Allye being ‘mine’ are supposed to be sexy but the just feel a little bit whiny and controlling after a while.

The action scenes at the start and the end of this book are great. I enjoyed the hunt for the killer and Allye’s trafficker and loved the suspense at the end. But most of the rest of the story didn’t quite work for me. ...more

No no no. What? Who is rating this book?! No. You read the wrong book or something.

If you’re going for “totally unbelievable” -(And bad, groan-with-despair-at-the-impossibility dialogue) fine. Five stars. If you’re at all trying to read a story that maybe, in some parallel universe, possibly could have taken place... no.

I’ve read many books from Ms.Stoker’s other series: SEAL of Protection, Delta Force Heroes, Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes. I’ve enjoyed her writing. Obviously. But this first one in the Mountain Mercenaries series was a bit of a hot mess to me.

Why? Everything was over the top awful.

Starting out, Gray single-handedly invades a yacht in the dark with the purpose of gathering intel about a sex-trafficking ring. He’s badass, but alsoRidiculous. This whole freakin book was over. the top. ridiculous.

I’ve read many books from Ms.Stoker’s other series: SEAL of Protection, Delta Force Heroes, Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes. I’ve enjoyed her writing. Obviously. But this first one in the Mountain Mercenaries series was a bit of a hot mess to me.

Why? Everything was over the top awful.

Starting out, Gray single-handedly invades a yacht in the dark with the purpose of gathering intel about a sex-trafficking ring. He’s badass, but also ruthless. The scene was disturbing, and a little too graphic for me. He threatens bodily harm and then almost immediately makes good on the threat. Several moments later he’s neutralizing another bad guy - in a permanent way - without much thought. I know these were both bad guys, but I’m not used to such vigilante behavior out of someone who’s supposed to be a hero.

Then Gray discovers there’s a woman on the yacht that is sinking quickly with them on it. There’s bad guys, an explosion. She, of course, is handcuffed to the wall. They escape, only to spend an hour swimming in the ocean. It’s like a Mission Impossible plot.

So Gray and Allye escape, and she’s all snarky and sarcastic. Totally not how you’d expect a woman to behave after being kidnapped and held prisoner on a yacht. It didn’t quite jive with the situation, but I was getting past it. Then we learn about her terrible, horrible, rotten childhood. Good grief, there just isn’t much else that could have been heaped on this poor girl. And we learn she’s a professional dancer - despite never having any formal training growing up. Just a couple years of dancing and now she’s making a living off it. Yeah, that’s realistic.

Apparently, Allye has somehow attracted the attention of a sadistic rich man who is willing to pay a huge amount of money to have her kidnapped so she can be his sex slave. But never mind that. Once they make it back to the shore, Gray and his teammate, Black, say “peace out homey” and leave her in the care of some random old man no one knows to drop her off alone at her apartment. Because it totally makes sense to let the kidnapped woman go back home all by herself. What the heck?!

Then Allye remembers she snagged a thumb drive out of the computer one of the bad guys was using in front of her (these were apparently not very bright criminals), and now the Mountain Mercenaries have decided she needs their protection 24/7. When it’s evident the head “bad dude” is kidnapping other women close to Allye, she wants to do what she can to help catch him. Because of some bad stuff Gray went through when he was a Navy SEAL, he’s not in favor of Allye using herself as bait.

And the bad guy. He's REALLY a bad guy. Again, it was disturbing how bad this bad guy is. Maybe this is going to be a darker series for this author. At any rate, I didn’t really enjoy it. It all ends with happily-ever-after, but was fraught with ridiculous all along the way.

I know this is fiction. Sometimes I am able to overlook certain characterizations or story lines when things stray super-far from reality. But only if the writing is really, really good. Sadly, in this instance it wasn’t. Common, overused phrases were used repeatedly in the same chapter (for instance, “once and for all”), and the banter between the Mercenaries was often cringeworthy.

This was my first ARC of a Susan Stoker novel, so maybe there was some additional editing done before official publication which cleaned up the repetitive phrasing and other loose prose. But I still don’t think those things would have fixed this story for me. I’m also willing to concede that maybe my reading tastes and preferences have changed in the past several years since I started reading Ms. Stoker, and her writing is no longer appealing to me. I don’t know. I just know I almost quit this book at the 30 percent point, at 50 percent, and then again at 75 percent. But by then I talked myself into finishing since I was so close to the end. At any rate, I won’t be reading any more of this series.

* thank you to NetGalley and Montlake Romance for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review...more

I've read quite a few of the books in this author's Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes series and I really enjoyed those books, so I was excited to read more from her! I then saw this book on Netgalley and decided to request an ARC! I was really excited when my request was accepted and I started my ARC as soon as I received it! After reading, I can say that I enjoyed this book a lot! The plot had me intrigued right from the first chapter and it only took me a few sittings to read because I couldn't puI've read quite a few of the books in this author's Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes series and I really enjoyed those books, so I was excited to read more from her! I then saw this book on Netgalley and decided to request an ARC! I was really excited when my request was accepted and I started my ARC as soon as I received it! After reading, I can say that I enjoyed this book a lot! The plot had me intrigued right from the first chapter and it only took me a few sittings to read because I couldn't put it down until I had finished it! The plot also had plenty of action and suspense in it, which I loved, and these two aspects added a lot to the plot and kept me desperate to read on and find out what was going to happen next! I loved the romance between the two main characters too and the romance allowed for some seriously hot scenes! The characters were also amazing and made this book even better! Grayson 'Gray' was the main male character, and in this book he had a normal, everyday job, and then at times he had a very dangerous job! I had a lot of respect for Gray and I found him to be a very likable guy and he was pretty damn hot too lol! It was also easy to see how much he cared about his love interest and he was very protective of her too! I could completely understand why he was! Gray was also such a sweetheart and I just adored him! Allye was the main female character and love interest of Gray! I loved Allye a lot in this book! She had been through a hard childhood and then hadn't had the best luck in her life! She then went through a lot in this book, but was still positive and had her head on straight! Allye was also willing to put herself in danger to protect others and this made me have a lot of respect for her! I connected with Allye all the way through this book too and I didn't lose that connection at any point! I loved that this book was written from both Gray and Allye's point of views! I wasn't sure if it was going to be, but I'm really happy that it was! It helped me connect more with both characters and it allowed for more things to happen in the plot, especially as both characters didn't spent every moment together! This book was also written in third person! I wasn't sure if it was going to be, but the other books that I've read from this author have been written this way, so I wasn't too surprised lol! I did enjoy it being written this way and was still able to connect with the characters! I now can't wait to read the next book in this series! I know that it's going to focus on a new set of characters and I can kind of guess who the characters are going to be because of the end of this book, but I'm excited to read it! It releases in December and I'll definitely be reading it once it releases! The cover for this book is absolutely perfect for it! I love how well it suits the book and the cover model is the perfect Gray! Big thank you to Susan, Montlake Romance and Netgalley for ARC of Defending Allye!...more

Rcvd an ARC at no cost to author. (netgalley)I enjoyed this book and was happy to get a new series with the Mountain Mercenaries!!! We had gotten introduced to them in the last series she had (Ace Securities) and I enjoyed that series too, no you do not need to read it it was a just comment because I like Susan Stoker and I like reading her series hope you will to. In this one we get to meet Gray who is on a mission to find out who are the ones responsible for human trafficking and stop them. OnRcvd an ARC at no cost to author. (netgalley)I enjoyed this book and was happy to get a new series with the Mountain Mercenaries!!! We had gotten introduced to them in the last series she had (Ace Securities) and I enjoyed that series too, no you do not need to read it it was a just comment because I like Susan Stoker and I like reading her series hope you will to. In this one we get to meet Gray who is on a mission to find out who are the ones responsible for human trafficking and stop them. On one of his missions he ends up saving Allye, and he was surprised by her she was strong, funny, beautiful and composed considering how he found her. They are attracted to each other but didn't want to act on it since they live in 2 different states and with 2 different goals. Allye remembers something she needs to give the Mountain Mercenary to assist them with their mission and also since she feels she is being watched, when she gets to the guys her life and his will change because their attraction is strong to hold back. We have more problems that arise but with each other and the group they will be able to overcome..I can't wait to the next one...Thanks Susan for an enjoyable book! Enjoy my friends....more

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is an excellent beginning to a new series by Susan Stoker. I will definitely be looking out for future installments. Do be warned though, this is pretty gritty in places, no hiding the realities of the ways that the team get their answers, or remove danger.

Any fan of Stoker will recognise the ex-SEAL men who are prepared to risk their lives and use their skills to address wrong, and any fan of Charlie's Angels will~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is an excellent beginning to a new series by Susan Stoker. I will definitely be looking out for future installments. Do be warned though, this is pretty gritty in places, no hiding the realities of the ways that the team get their answers, or remove danger.

Any fan of Stoker will recognise the ex-SEAL men who are prepared to risk their lives and use their skills to address wrong, and any fan of Charlie's Angels will see some fun comparisons too, I think!

The initial part of the story, where we first get to meet Allye and Gray gives us the measure of these two people. They are both strong characters, and in spite of the circumstances they recognise that they are attracted to each other. However, they do not act on it - to both of them, it seems like it might be a product of the situation, rather than genuine. Luckily fate intervenes, and the rest of the fast paced drama and romance holds out more hope for a happy ending - well, most of the time!

The underlying plot is strong and intense, and I definitely recommend this thriller to you.

Susan Stoker did it again. I have read her books and loved them all, the characters and the stories, so with this new series, well I was not sure if I would like it, but gosh darn it, she again wove her magic and I felt that I was part of her story, I was drawn in and fell in love the characters.

I read it straight thru . The story is about a beautifully unique woman Allye Martin a professional dancer and Grayson (Gray) an accountant by day and a mountain mercenary ex military alpha hero .I thinkSusan Stoker did it again. I have read her books and loved them all, the characters and the stories, so with this new series, well I was not sure if I would like it, but gosh darn it, she again wove her magic and I felt that I was part of her story, I was drawn in and fell in love the characters.

I read it straight thru . The story is about a beautifully unique woman Allye Martin a professional dancer and Grayson (Gray) an accountant by day and a mountain mercenary ex military alpha hero .I think this such a well written story, absolutely great characters . It has a somewhat dark storyline, but I really enjoyed reading it . I'm looking forward to reading more in the series. I highly recommend taking the time to read this wonderful story.

I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

It took me a bit of time to warm up to the story. The being is full of action which was a plus but it also a dash of the ridiculous (the USB seriously?). On a mission to stop people smuggles, Gray, a former Navy Seal, climbs aboard a boat in the middle of the ocean expecting to find money being exchanged but instead he finds Allye. – Side note, the author does after a little while explain how to pronounce Allye but until weI received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

It took me a bit of time to warm up to the story. The being is full of action which was a plus but it also a dash of the ridiculous (the USB seriously?). On a mission to stop people smuggles, Gray, a former Navy Seal, climbs aboard a boat in the middle of the ocean expecting to find money being exchanged but instead he finds Allye. – Side note, the author does after a little while explain how to pronounce Allye but until we read that point in the story I had no idea how to say it. I hate when authors use stupid spellings for names.

Anyway they are having big conversations while swimming in the middle of the ocean in complete darkness like it as nothing, like they are at a coffee shop. Allye and Gray’s conversations establish Allye as a strong woman able to handle difficult situations and Gray as the strong hero type. It was bit too contrived for me. The only thing that kept me reading in the the beginning was the bad guy. Luke Nightingale is a portrait of evil and I wanted to know if and how they’d catch him so I kept on reading and I’m glad I did because I enjoyed the hunt for the bad guy.

The romance between Gray and Allye is good and the naked scene appropriately hot. What the author did really well was conflict between the pair. You can see the point of contention coming. They are not arguing of some trivial misunderstanding which happens too often in romance books and the author gained a lot of points from me.

The story wraps up with a flurry of action and a satisfying HEA. When Gray and Allye’s story finishes, we get a sneak peak of the next story in the series, which will be Ro’s. I look forward to reading it.

New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.

She debuted her first series in 2014 andNew York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author, Susan Stoker has a heart as big as the state of Tennessee where she lives, but this all American girl has also spent the last fourteen years living in Missouri, California, Colorado, Indiana, and Tennessee. She's married to a retired Army man who now gets to follow her around the country.

She debuted her first series in 2014 and quickly followed that up with the SEAL of Protection Series, which solidified her love of writing and creating stories readers can get lost in.